U.S. patent application number 15/452928 was filed with the patent office on 2017-06-22 for dynamic fishing lure system & method.
The applicant listed for this patent is Robert Mann. Invention is credited to Robert Mann.
Application Number | 20170172127 15/452928 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 58256890 |
Filed Date | 2017-06-22 |
United States Patent
Application |
20170172127 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Mann; Robert |
June 22, 2017 |
DYNAMIC FISHING LURE SYSTEM & METHOD
Abstract
A fishing lure representing a typical fish is formed from
plastic or polymer. Embedded therein is provided a dynamic motion
actuator utilized to attract fish by the continuous or random
motion effected thereby. The device is powered by an onboard
battery connected to a vibrational motor. A control circuit detects
the water activation of the fishing lure and enables the motor and
a lighting system for a predetermined sequence of activation and
deactivation. An auxiliary control circuit senses connection of a
USB to barrel connector power wire through a charging dock mounted
in the frame of the fishing lure. Checking both a charging state
and the number of times the device has been charged, the auxiliary
control circuit enables a steady state light for signaling charging
and a flashing light if the number of charges is above a certain
level by using a counter.
Inventors: |
Mann; Robert; (Clearwater,
FL) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Mann; Robert |
Clearwater |
FL |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
58256890 |
Appl. No.: |
15/452928 |
Filed: |
March 8, 2017 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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14952044 |
Nov 25, 2015 |
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15452928 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H02J 7/0021 20130101;
A01K 85/16 20130101; A01K 99/00 20130101; A01K 85/01 20130101; H02J
7/0044 20130101; H02J 7/0042 20130101; H01R 13/5213 20130101; H01R
13/523 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A01K 85/01 20060101
A01K085/01; H01R 13/523 20060101 H01R013/523; H02J 7/00 20060101
H02J007/00; H01R 13/52 20060101 H01R013/52; A01K 85/16 20060101
A01K085/16; A01K 99/00 20060101 A01K099/00 |
Claims
1. A dynamic fishing lure comprising: a fish structure having an
electric control circuit mounted therein and a battery in electric
association with the electric control circuit.
2. The dynamic fishing lure of claim 1, wherein the dynamic fishing
lure further comprises: a first open circuit actuation node
attached to the electric control circuit.
3. The dynamic fishing lure of claim 2, wherein the dynamic fishing
lure further comprises: a second open circuit actuation node
attached to the electric control circuit.
4. The dynamic fishing lure of claim 2, wherein the dynamic fishing
lure further comprises: a lighting system attached to the electric
control circuit and to the first open circuit actuation node.
5. The dynamic fishing lure of claim 2, wherein the first open
circuit actuation node further comprises: an annular contact wired
to the electrical control circuit.
6. The dynamic fishing lure of claim 5, wherein the first open
circuit actuation node further comprises: a fishing hook holder
mounted about a support within the fishing lure with the annular
contact mounted about the same support and in direct physical
contact with the fishing hook holder.
7. The dynamic fishing lure of claim 4, wherein the lighting system
further comprises: an attraction lighting device attached to the
electrical control circuit.
8. The dynamic fishing lure of claim 4, wherein the lighting system
further comprises: a charging status lighting device attached to
the electrical control circuit.
9. The dynamic fishing lure of claim 3, wherein the second open
circuit actuation node further comprises an annular contact wired
to the electrical control circuit.
10. The dynamic fishing lure of claim 9, wherein the second open
circuit actuation node further comprises: a fishing hook holder
mounted about a support within the fishing lure with the annular
contact mounted about the same support and in direct physical
contact with the fishing hook holder.
11. The dynamic fishing lure of claim 1, further comprising: an
auxiliary control circuit mounted in the fish structure and in
electrical association with the electric control circuit.
12. The dynamic fishing lure of claim 11, further comprising: a
charging dock in electrical association with the auxiliary control
circuit and the electric control circuit.
13. The dynamic fishing lure of claim 1, further comprising: a
balanced set of fresh and salt water operation loads in electrical
association with the electric control circuit.
14. The dynamic fishing lure of claim 1, further comprising: a
charging protrusion on an external surface of the fishing
structure.
15. The dynamic fishing lure of claim 14, further comprising: a
seal attached to the fishing structure contoured to the charging
protrusion and to any internal electrical components thereof and
also contoured to an internal physical structure of the charging
protrusion.
16. A method of operating a fishing lure comprising the steps of:
an electric control circuit detecting whether or not the fishing
lure is being water activated through open circuit nodes and
enabling a lighting system associated with the electrical control
circuit in the event of water activation as well as powering a
vibration motor mounted in the fishing lure and in electrical
association with the electric control circuit.
17. The method of operating a fishing lure of claim 16, further
comprising the steps of : repeatedly activating and deactivating
the lighting system and the vibration motor for predetermined
activation and deactivation time intervals as long as the electric
control circuit detects water activation.
18. A method of operating an electric fishing lure comprising the
steps of: an auxiliary control circuit determining an activation
status of a charging port attached thereto when a charger wire
connector is loaded into the charging port and checking the
charging state of a power source electrically associated with the
auxiliary control circuit and with the charging port.
19. The method of operating an electric fishing lure of claim 18,
further comprising the steps of: deciding whether a counter
associated with the auxiliary control circuit has reached a maximum
value incrementing a counter when the counter is below a maximum
value and a charge state is below a threshold enabling charging of
the power source and activating a lighting device associated with
the auxiliary control circuit redetermining an activation status of
the charging port when the connector is loaded therein and when so
rechecking the charging state of a power source.
20. The method of operating an electric fishing lure of claim 19,
further comprising the steps of: flashing a lighting device
associated with the auxiliary control circuit when the counter
reaches a certain threshold.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent
Application No. 62/222,811 filed 24 Sep. 2015, the entirety of
which is incorporated by reference. This application claims
priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/222,545
filed 23 Sep. 2015, the entirety of which is incorporated by
reference. This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional
Patent Application No. 62/218,983 filed 15 Sep. 2015, the entirety
of which is incorporated by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to devices that attract fish
by providing some form of stimulus. More particularly, the present
invention relates to an electronic fishing lure having dynamic
characteristics that sufficiently fool the target fish in to
believing that the lure is an actual prey; this thereby compels the
target fish to bite the lure entangling it in the associated
fishing hooks.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Barrel Connectors
[0003] Coaxial connectors are utilized in various environments to
facilitate charging of consumer electronic devices such as tape
recorders and similar devices. Thus, these ubiquitous power
connectors are used for attaching low voltage consumer devices to a
power source. Commonly known as barrel connectors, concentric
barrel connectors or tip connectors they come in a large variety of
sizes currently available in the marketplace.
[0004] On the female Plug side, the outer body is metallic and
cylindrical in shape, and comprises one of the two contacts. The
second, inside contact is a hollow metallic cylinder constructed to
accept insertion of the pin in the corresponding male connector. It
should be understood that the inner and outer barrels are separated
by an insulating layer. The outer contact is generally called
barrel or sleeve, and the inner contact is called the tip. In the
male Receptacle There is typically a single spring-loaded contact
at the side of the male connector and a pin in the center
corresponding to the intended female plug.
[0005] A typical device being charged by these devices has a
central rod mounted on a small metal plate acting as a charging
terminal; the small metal plate is then connected to internal
circuitry of the device. This metal plate is placed within a
mounting slot formed from the surrounding plastic material of the
device. Once a top portion of the device is screwed together or
locked in place with tongue and groove connection, for example, the
device is ready for charging. The other charing terminal is formed
by a corresponding cylindrical conductive side wall that
concentrically surrounds the central rod described above. It is
likewise encased in a plastic molded formed within the device and
has an opening for attachment of the other electrical charging
pole.
Vibration Motors
[0006] Small vibration motors have been around for several decades.
They were originally developed for massaging products, but modern
vibration motors rapidly expanded into the cellular phone market
when consumers required vibrational alerts on their mobile phones.
A typical cellphone vibration device has an eccentric mass attached
to a motor, that is understandably known as an eccentric rotation
masses (ERM) motors. Today, designers have learned from two decades
of mobile phones how to make a variety of different types that have
subsequently spread across a variety of technologies. Amongst these
are miniature vibrating motors used in a wide range of products,
like tools, scanners, medical instruments, GPS, and control
sticks.
[0007] Enabling the motion of the device requires a suitable source
of voltage and current. Because of this, ERM vibration motors are
either directly connected to a voltage source or connected in
series or parallel using a specifically designed control circuit
such as a micro-controller chip on a circuit board, an IC circuit
controller, a transistor based device, or other discrete glue logic
devices accomplishing the appropriate control of ERM motor. All of
these are within the level of the prior art.
Current Fishing Lure Technology
[0008] Modern anglers have used two main techniques to attract fish
to their hooks. Typically, a combination of live bait and an
attractive colorful lure have been utilized to affect both the
physical senses of sight and taste of the fish as it swims in the
water. Lures come in various shapes and sizes ranging from flexible
strips to hard plastic man made fish. This latter type typically is
composed of two half shells shaped and colored as a typical fish;
the two shells mirror one another and are attached along their
innermost edges as is known in the art either through adhesives,
glues, tongue and groove locking or arrowhead slot type of
connection; various combinations of these attachment schemes are
known in the prior art.
[0009] The use of these lures has proven somewhat effective
overtime thereby having the intended effect of bringing a fish to
clamp down its mouth onto a lure having associated hooks. However,
fish are wild animals with great experience and can sometimes
ignore a lure and bait; as a consequence, the wait to get a good
animal snared can last a long time. Thus, there needs to be some
device to effectively convince the fish that a live fish is present
thereby exciting the target fish to aggressively attack the lure,
live bait and or attached hooks. Additionally, there needs to be a
solution that is efficient, inexpensive, easily manageable,
reusable and portable. Further, there needs to be a solution that
can power a fishing lure without permitting seepage of liquids into
the fishing lure as this must be robustly protected therefrom as
this would disable its operation.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] The present invention overcomes the deficiencies of the
known art and the problems that remain unsolved by providing a
novel Twitch Dynamic Fishing Lure.
[0011] A dynamic fishing lure comprising: [0012] a fish structure
having [0013] an electric control circuit mounted therein and
[0014] a battery in electric association with the electric control
circuit.
[0015] In another aspect, wherein the dynamic fishing lure further
comprises: [0016] a first open circuit actuation node attached to
the electric control circuit.
[0017] In another aspect, wherein the dynamic fishing lure further
comprises: [0018] a second open circuit actuation node attached to
the electric control circuit.
[0019] In another aspect, wherein the dynamic fishing lure further
comprises: [0020] a lighting system attached to the electric
control circuit and to the first open circuit actuation node.
[0021] In another aspect, wherein the first open circuit actuation
node further comprises: [0022] an annular contact wired to the
electrical control circuit.
[0023] In another aspect, wherein the first open circuit actuation
node further comprises: [0024] a fishing hook holder mounted about
[0025] a support within the fishing lure with the annular contact
mounted about the same support and in direct physical contact with
the fishing hook holder.
[0026] In another aspect, wherein the lighting system further
comprises: [0027] an attraction lighting device attached to the
electrical control circuit.
[0028] In another aspect, wherein the lighting system further
comprises: [0029] a charging status lighting device attached to the
electrical control circuit.
[0030] In another aspect, wherein the second open circuit actuation
node further comprises an annular contact wired to the electrical
control circuit.
[0031] In another aspect, wherein the second open circuit actuation
node further comprises: [0032] a fishing hook holder mounted about
[0033] a support within the fishing lure with the annular contact
mounted about the same support and in direct physical contact with
the fishing hook holder.
[0034] In another aspect, further comprising: [0035] an auxiliary
control circuit mounted in the fish structure and in electrical
association with the electric control circuit. [0036] In another
aspect, further comprising: [0037] a charging dock in electrical
association with the auxiliary control circuit and the electric
control circuit.
[0038] In another aspect, further comprising: [0039] a group of
balanced set of fresh and salt water operation loads in electrical
association with the electric control circuit.
[0040] In another aspect, further comprising: [0041] a charging
protrusion on an external surface of the fishing structure.
[0042] In another aspect, further comprising: [0043] a seal
attached to the fishing structure contoured to the charging
protrusion and to any internal electrical components thereof and to
an internal physical structure of the charging protrusion.
[0044] A method of operating a fishing lure comprising the steps
of: [0045] an electric control circuit detecting whether or not the
fishing lure is being water activated through open circuit nodes
and [0046] enabling a lighting system associated with the
electrical control circuit in the event of water activation as well
as [0047] powering a vibration motor mounted in the fishing lure
and in electrical association with the electric control
circuit.
[0048] In another aspect, further comprising the steps of : [0049]
repeatedly activating and deactivating the lighting system and the
vibration motor for predetermined activation and deactivation time
intervals as long as the electric control circuit detects water
activation.
[0050] A method of operating an electric fishing lure comprising
the steps of: [0051] an auxiliary control circuit determining an
activation status of a charging port attached thereto when a
charger wire connector is loaded into the charging port and [0052]
checking the charging state of a power source electrically
associated with the auxiliary control circuit and with the charging
port.
[0053] In another aspect, further comprising the steps of: [0054]
deciding whether a counter associated with the auxiliary control
circuit has reached a maximum value [0055] incrementing a counter
when the counter is below a maximum value and a charge state is
below a threshold [0056] enabling charging of the power source and
[0057] activating a lighting device associated with the auxiliary
control circuit [0058] redetermining an activation status of the
charging port when the connector is loaded therein and when so
rechecking the charging state of a power source.
[0059] In another aspect, further comprising the steps of: [0060]
flashing a lighting device associated with the auxiliary control
circuit when the counter reaches a certain threshold. [0061] These
and other aspects, features, and advantages of the present
invention will become more readily apparent from the attached
drawings and the detailed description of the preferred embodiments,
which follow.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0062] The preferred embodiments of the invention will hereinafter
be described in conjunction with the appended drawings provided to
illustrate and not to limit the invention, in which:
[0063] FIG. 1A presents a circuit level diagram for a Twitch
Dynamic Fishing Lure having an electromechanical switch that is to
be loaded within the shells of a plastic or polymer fishing lure in
an embodiment. FIG. 1B presents a circuit level diagram for a
Twitch Dynamic Fishing Lure having an open circuit that is to be
loaded within the shells of a plastic or polymer fish in another
embodiment.
[0064] FIG. 1C presents a shell of fishing lure having a circuit
level diagram for a Twitch Dynamic Fishing Lure having an
electromechanical switch that is loaded within the shells of a
plastic or polymer fishing lure in an embodiment. FIG. 1D presents
a circuit level diagram for a Twitch Dynamic Fishing Lure having an
open circuit progressing outside of the shells of the fishing lure;
the circuit is loaded within the shells of a plastic or polymer
fishing lure in this another embodiment.
[0065] FIG. 2 presents a component level diagram of various devices
used to effect an embodiment of the Twitch Dynamic Fishing Lure
having a electromechanical switch.
[0066] FIG. 3 presents a component level diagram of various devices
used to effect a second embodiment of the Twitch Dynamic Fishing
Lure having a removable battery pack and externally protruding open
circuit.
[0067] FIG. 4 presents a component level diagram of various devices
used to effect a third embodiment of the Twitch Dynamic Fishing
Lure having a charging port and externally protruding open
circuit.
[0068] FIG. 5 presents a component level diagram of various devices
used to effect a fourth embodiment of the Twitch Dynamic Fishing
Lure having a non-removable battery pack and externally protruding
open circuit.
[0069] FIG. 6A presents an elevation view of a charging stick
having a charging wire associated therewith. FIG. 6B presents an
elevation view of a charger device having a charging wire
associated therewith.
[0070] FIG. 7 presents various components describing a removable
battery pack in the second embodiment of FIG. 3.
[0071] FIG. 8 presents a closeup view of a Twitch Disk electrical
Contact device that makes contact with a figure eight fishing hook
holder in an embodiment.
[0072] FIG. 9 presents a closeup view of a Twitch Disk electrical
Contact device separate from the figure eight fishing hook holder
that it is designed to make contact with in an embodiment.
[0073] FIG. 10 presents an elevation view of a Twitch Disk
electrical Contact device in a mid body position and in an end (or
forward) position making contact with their respective figure eight
fishing hook holders in an embodiment.
[0074] FIG. 11 presents a perspective view of a Twitch Disk
electrical Contact device in a mid body position and in an end (or
forward) position making contact with their respective figure eight
fishing hook holders in an embodiment.
[0075] FIG. 12 presents an electrical diagram in an alternative
embodiment of a Twitch device describing various lighting and
vibrational properties.
[0076] FIG. 13 presents a fishing device having an embedded control
device and a recharging power port that is exposed to the elements
as well as a sealing cap in an embodiment.
[0077] FIG. 14 presents a fishing device having an embedded control
device and a recharging power port that is exposed to the elements
as well as a sealing cap; in this view the sealing cap is inserted
within the primary channel of the power port in an embodiment.
[0078] FIG. 15 presents a fishing device having an embedded control
device and a recharging power port that is exposed to the elements
as well as a sealing cap; in this view, the sealing cap is inserted
within the primary channel of the power port and the power terminal
is inserted within the terminal channel in the sealing cap in an
embodiment.
[0079] FIG. 16A presents a first part of a process describing the
operational flow of the electrical circuit in FIG. 12.
[0080] FIG. 16B presents a second part of a process describing the
operational flow of the electrical circuit in FIG. 12.
[0081] Like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the
several views of the drawings.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0082] The following detailed description is merely exemplary in
nature and is not intended to limit the described embodiments or
the application and uses of the described embodiments. As used
herein, the word "exemplary" or "illustrative" means "serving as an
example, instance, or illustration." Any implementation described
herein as "exemplary" or "illustrative" is not necessarily to be
construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations.
All of the implementations described below are exemplary
implementations provided to enable persons skilled in the art to
make or use the embodiments of the disclosure and are not intended
to limit the scope of the disclosure, which is defined by the
claims. For purposes of description herein, the terms "upper",
"lower", "left", "rear", "right", "front", "vertical",
"horizontal", and derivatives thereof shall relate to the invention
as oriented in each figure.
[0083] Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any
expressed or implied theory presented in the preceding technical
field, background, brief summary or the following detailed
description. It is also to be understood that the specific devices
and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described
in the following specification, are simply exemplary embodiments of
the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence,
specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to
the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as
limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise.
[0084] A fishing lure 1 as taught herein is a dual shell device
shaped as a fish, other aquatic animals, or simple geometric shapes
made from plastic, polymer, rubber or similar materials having
various Twitch Dynamic Fishing Lure devices therein; these are
designed to effect a compelling reaction on nearby aquatic life.
The primary device within the lure is an eccentric rotating mass
(ERM) appropriately mounted within internal walls on either or
across both corresponding shell(s) having recesses (form fitting
slots, tongue and groove support, arrowhead on one shell to a hole
snap fittings on a corresponding one etcetera or combinations
thereof) for attachment of the base portion of the ERM by itself
using glues, compression, screws or the use of an associated
circuit board upon which the ERM is solder mounted or otherwise
attached thereto. The rest of the circuit portions are similarly
mounted within the shells of the lure and wired together as
necessary to provide power to the devices therein.
[0085] The fishing lures come in two main types, namely, a switch
activated device and an open circuit water contact activated
device. The first as its name implies is activated through a user
toggling the motion of the eccentric rotating mass on and off. The
second type on the other hand, is more ingenious in that the open
circuit protrudes out the side of the shells and are normally
external thereto; then a user deposits the lure within a body of
water. As a result, the circuit is activated once both ends of the
open circuit have made contact with water thereby completing the
open circuit therethrough.
[0086] FIG. 1A presents a circuit level diagram for a Twitch
Dynamic Fishing Lure having an electromechanical switch that is to
be loaded within the shells of a plastic or polymer fishing lure in
an embodiment. A terminal of a source of power such as a battery 3
or battery pack is connected to one end of a switching device 4 and
its other terminal is connected to an optional LED device 7 at a
contact thereof; alternatively, it is directly connected to the ERM
motor 5. It should be understood that the switch 4 protrudes
outside of the shell of the lure and the internal contents of the
lure are sealed against water leakage using glues, gaskets, rubber
seal and the like. Further, the other contact of the optional LED
device is connected to the ERM motor 5 that has its other contact
connected to the other contact of the switch 4. Thus, when a user
toggles the switch ON to OFF he stops the motion of the motor and
OFF to ON a user causes the ERM mass to energize thereby causing
the lure to move about. Once placed in the water it is an effective
attractor of aquatic life.
[0087] FIG. 1B presents a circuit level diagram for a Twitch
Dynamic Fishing Lure having an open circuit that is to be loaded
within the shells of a plastic or polymer fish in another
embodiment. A terminal of a source of power such as a battery 3 or
battery pack is connected to one end of an open circuit 4A and its
other terminal is connected to an optional LED device 7 at a
contact thereof; alternatively, it is directly connected to the ERM
motor 5. It should be understood that the open circuit 4A contacts
protrude outside of the shell of the lure and the internal contents
of the lure are sealed against water leakage using glues, gaskets,
rubber seal and the like. In the optional case, the other contact
of the LED device is connected to the ERM motor 5 that has its
other contact connected to the other contact of the open circuit
4A. Thus, when a user places the lure in the water, electric
current circulates through the water between the two contacts of
the open circuit 4A thereby causing the ERM mass to energize and
the lure to move about creating an effective attractor of aquatic
life.
[0088] FIG. 1C presents a shell of fishing lure having a circuit
level diagram for a Twitch Dynamic Fishing Lure having an
electromechanical switch that is loaded within the shells of a
plastic or polymer fishing lure in an embodiment. Here the circuit
of FIG. 1A is encapsulated within a dual shell fishing lure. An
electromechanical push button switch 4 protrudes out of a hole in
one of the shells of the lure or out of semi-circular holes in both
shells that come together forming a single circular hole between
the two shells; appropriate seals are provided to ensure that the
internal contents of the lure are not contaminated by fluids.
[0089] FIG. 1D presents a circuit level diagram for a Twitch
Dynamic Fishing Lure having an open circuit progressing outside of
the shells of the fishing lure; the circuit is loaded within the
shells of a plastic or polymer fishing lure in this another
embodiment. Here the circuit of FIG. 1B is encapsulated within a
dual shell fishing lure. Two contact wires protrude out the side of
one shell or one each from each shell thereby forming an open
circuit 4A; appropriate seals are provided about the wires to
ensure that the internal contents of the lure are not contaminated
by fluids. The wires are optionally turned back on themselves at
their respective ends thereof thereby forming a round hole at each
of their ends; this is to enable the attachment of fishing hooks
within the aforementioned round holes; a variation of this has the
wires formed as `figure eights` as described below. Thus, it is
envisioned that the wires are typically disposed underneath the
lure for attachment of hooks thereon. However, the open circuit
wires, figure eights or ends having round holes can be located
anywhere on the body of the fishing lure that is deemed
convenient.
[0090] FIG. 2 presents a component level diagram of various devices
used to effect an embodiment of the Twitch Dynamic Fishing Lure
having an electromechanical switch. As previously described two
half shells are molded in the shape of an aquatic animal or a
simple geometric shape. Within this dual shell is another dual
shell or `capsule` holding the components of the Twitch Dynamic
Fishing Lure; this is comprised of two half cylindrical plastic
shells 2A, 2B. Item 2A is a half cylindrical shell having two
semicircular ends 2D, 2E and a perforation or hole 2C approximately
a quarter to half way down the top surface thereof for placement of
a switch button 4 therein; the bottom edges of the circular half
shell 2A forming the cylinder are shaped as a rectangle that
matches a corresponding rectangle on item 2B. This item 2B is a
half cylindrical shell having two semicircular ends 2F, 2G and
whose top edges matches in size and shape the bottom edges of the
first half shell 2A.
[0091] The design contemplates having a tongue and groove contact
with an appropriate triangular protrusion (or other shape) / hole
locking mechanism so that the two do not disengage or slide away
from each other; alternatively, the shells are glued together or
similar connection schemes are used whilst the particular details
are not shown for simplicity in the drawing. Thus, a protrusion at
one edge of item 2A, 2B matches a corresponding hole at an opposing
side of item 2B, 2A. The tongue on one item would match a
corresponding groove on the other item thereby completing the
locking of the overall internal shell. In this way, a tongue and
groove system binds the half shells 2A, 2B together. Alternatively,
a mounting system is devised of internal walls within the fish 1
shells thereby holding the shells 2A, 2B in place through a flange
on one engaging an inwards directed overhang on another.
[0092] A battery motor holder device 51 is a molded plastic
component that fits within the cylindrical shells 2A, 2B such that
the underside `portions` thereof match the inner surface of item
2B; in other words, it 51 has a curved shape underneath. The
battery motor holder device 51 has a square or rectangular battery
compartment 5A space having a curved bottom inner surface at its
anterior end for holding various disk shaped batteries 3; this
compartment 5A is separate but integral with the rest of the device
SI having both forward and rear semicircular internal walls
integral with the rest of the overall device. It should also be
understood that the compartment 5A has fixed positive and negative
metallic contacts 5C, 5D (not shown) attached in slots at the
forward and rear semicircular wall thereof. Further, 5E, 5F wires
are welded to these contacts so as to provide electrical power to
the rest of the Twitch Dynamic Fishing Lure.
[0093] The rear or posterior portion 5B of the battery motor holder
device SI has two longitudinal parallel wings 5G, 5H that jut out
therefrom; these wings have a semi circular shape externally and
opposing circular shapes within forming a motor holder clamp
therein. Thus, the back of the motor 5 that is of similar size is
inserted within the two wings 5G, 5H and held therein snugly. The
contact switch 4 sits above the motor 5 and has an external lip
that extends outwards as a flange; this flange prevents the switch
4 from exiting through the hole 2C in the capsule shell 2A.
[0094] Providing electric power from the batteries to the rest of
the circuit is accomplished by a wired circuit that communicates
current from batteries 3 through the circuit when the switch 4 is
in its ON position and prevents the same when in the OFF position.
A wire is welded to to one terminal of a contact switch 4 and its
opposite end is likewise welded to a terminal of the motor 5; the
other terminal contact of the motor 5 is connected by wire to an
optional circuit board 6 having an optional LED device soldered
thereon; thus, the motor wire is welded / soldered to a terminal of
the LED device. The optional circuit board 6 is loaded into a
depression on the inner surface of the shell 2A and sits above the
vibrational part of the motor 5.
[0095] In the event that the optional circuit board 6 is included,
then another wire is welded to the other contact of the LED welded
/ soldered to the circuit board 6 and its opposite end is welded to
the a terminal either of 5C, 5D of the battery holder 5A depending
on the implementation. From there, another wire welded to the other
terminal either of 5D, 5C has its opposite end welded to the
contact switch's other terminal thereby completing the circuit. It
should be understood that this motor 5 is an eccentric rotating
mass type ERM motor (or similar vibration motor) that causes
suitable vibration upon actuation of a push button switch 4 that
sits atop the motor and is electrically connected thereto with
suitably wiring. The switch is disposed to abut the non vibrational
portion of the motor 5 thereby fixing it against the body thereof
and the inside portion of shell 2A.
[0096] In the event that the circuit board 6 is excluded therefrom,
the wire from the motor 5 that would have gone to the board 6 is
instead extended to the battery compartment where it is welded to
the other terminal contacts either of 5C, 5D of the battery holder
5A depending on the implementation. From there, another wire welded
to the other terminal either of 5D, 5C has its opposite end welded
to the contact switch's 4 other terminal thereby completing the
circuit.
[0097] In this fashion it should be understood that this motor 5 is
placed within the holder device SI posterior portion 5B behind the
battery compartment 5A and separated therefrom. It should also be
apparent that suitable wiring is included within the device to
complete a DC circuit so as to energize the motor 5 when the push
button 4 switch is turned ON; similarly, the internal nature of the
switch 4 permits it being disconnected when it is turned OFF
thereby cutting off electric power to the rest of the circuit.
Appropriate optional internal mounts such as slots, grooves, walls
are provided for the push button switch 4 and circuit card 6 but
not shown for simplicity. It is also envisioned that a parallel
circuit is also feasible according to circuit principles.
[0098] The assembled internal shell having the two half shells 2A,
2B form a `capsule` and it and the contents thereof are placed
within the confines of a plastic or polymer fish dual shell. The
internal capsule composed of two half shells is optionally placed
within internal mounts formed from internal plastic guides,
protrusions, walls, grooves or other suitable shapes thereby fixing
the position of the capsule so that it does not slide about within
the volume of the fish. The external skin of the fish is similarly
comprised of two outer shells that are locked together by a
perimeter edge tongue and groove configuration; this is intended to
permanently seal the package for later sale. Additionally,
appropriate triangular protrusion--hole locking mechanisms so that
the two outer shells do not disengage or slide away from each other
are applied along the inner edges thereof. Optional rubber seals
are applied along the inner and outer edges of the tongue and
groove to prevent water from leaking therein. Glues and other
materials such as rubber, nylon or other materials can be used to
seal the device from water seepage.
[0099] FIG. 3 presents a component level diagram of various devices
used to effect a second embodiment of the Twitch Dynamic Fishing
Lure having a removable battery pack and externally protruding open
circuit. One half shell of a fishing lure 1 is described and the
corresponding half shell is not shown for simplicity but it is
understood. In this implementation, a circuit board 9 is mounted in
two U shaped plastic protrusions that are integrally formed from
plastic with the inner surface of the half shell; further, these U
shaped protrusions are disposed opposite one another with the open
center of the U shape facing one another thereby permitting a user
to slide the circuit board in the protrusions. An electric
vibration motor 5 and an LED light 7 are attached by soldering to
the top surface of the circuit board 6 forming appropriate electric
contacts thereon. A micro-controller, glue logic or an IC
controller 10 is soldered to the bottom surface of the circuit
board 6 forming appropriate electric contacts thereon. It should be
understood that the circuit board can alternatively be replaced
with wiring only.
[0100] Next, two conductive wires 8A, 8B are wired separately to
the circuit board forming contact points thereon; the other extreme
portion of the wires 8A, 8B extend outwards to the inner surface of
the half shell forming the fishing lure 1 and through two small
perforations in its wall and proceed on beyond the outside of the
half shell of fishing lure 1; alternatively, the second wire 8B
proceeds out the other half shell through a hole therein although
not shown. The use of nylon in the plastic inner lining of the
holes, a rubber gasket or glue helps prevent leakage of liquids
from the outside to inner portion of the lure.
[0101] Next, a battery changing device 3A formed from cylindrical
ends 18A, 18B batteries 3, and an O-ring is provided on the bottom
portion of the shell disposed within a circular passageway formed
integrally from the body of the shell. The O-ring is attached by
adhesives or physical pressure into a circular depression running
along the inner space of the passageway; it is meant to engage a
similar depression on the cylindrical end 18B having the screw
driver slot. It should be understood that this battery changing
device 3A is in conformity with that described in FIG. 7 below; in
particular, the user inserts a screw driver into a slot in the
cylinder 18B and turns its head until it disengages from the bottom
of the fishing lure. At this point a user can extract the batteries
3 therein and replace them with fresh ones; closing of the device
by reattaching the cylinder 18B completes the process.
[0102] Providing electric power from the batteries 3 to the rest of
the components is accomplished by a wired circuit that communicates
current thereto; activation of this circuit is accomplished by a
user placing the lure in an aquatic or liquid environment thereby
providing a conductive channel for electric current to flow between
the conductive wires 8A, 8B. Thus, when conductive wires 8A, 8B are
in the water current can flow there between activating the motion
of the Twitch Fishing Lure as well as an optional LED light; of
course, no electric power flows when the device is not in the water
as their is no conductive pathway to transfer current therethrough.
Thus, an angler has a unique mechanism by which he or she can
simply toss the Twitch Lure into the water immediately activating
the visual and motion capabilities therein.
[0103] Conductive wires 8A, 8B each have an end that extends out
through a perforation or hole in the side of shell in the lure 1
and another end that is welded to separate contact points on
circuit board 9; alternatively, 8B extends out through the other
shell. Then another wire 8C is soldered to the contact for 8A on
the board 9 and its opposite end to a linear metal contact 11C that
is inserted in a hole in a U shaped mounting platform internal and
integral to the half shells; this U platform grips the top cylinder
18A using threads within the platform that match threads external
to the cylinder 18A. A hole 11D in the cylinder 18A permits the
metal contact 20 to extend out therefrom and meet the linear metal
contact 11C terminal thereby connecting to the batteries
therein.
[0104] The contact on the board 9 for wire 8B is connected to
another wire soldered to a terminal of motor 5; the other terminal
of the motor 5 is soldered to one terminal of an optional LED
device itself soldered onto the circuit board 9 creating a contact
point thereon. The other terminal of the LED device is soldered to
circuit board 9 creating another contact point that has a wire 8D
soldered thereto leading back to the metal ring 19 found in FIG. 7;
an intermediate connection is made through an L shaped conductive
metal 11A soldered to wire 8D that impacts the external surface of
a conductive metal ring 19. This conductive metal ring 19 has
electrical contact with the internal L shaped contact 11B that
finally meets the other terminal of the batteries arrayed inside of
the device 3A.
[0105] Finally, the activation of the motion of the ERM is engaged
by at least two wires 8A, 8B that extend out of the shell(s) of the
lure 1 or through the use of the metallic fishing hook holders in
an alternative embodiment. In other words, the figure eight (8)
shaped metal pieces (fishing hook holders) that extend out from the
body of the lure and that are waterproof sealed are also used
together as an alternative to the wire solution. Thus, one can have
a solution with the two wires extending out from the shell(s) and
another solution with the wires 8A, 8B instead of leaving the shell
are connected to FIG. 8 holders connected in a open circuit
configuration for water activation; the figure eight holders have
round connection for the hooks integral with their bodies.
[0106] FIG. 4 presents a component level diagram of various devices
used to effect a third embodiment of the Twitch Dynamic Fishing
Lure having a charging port. In this embodiment, a Twitch Fishing
Lure is shown having a recharging system such that the internal
lithium rechargeable battery can be re-energized via an external
source such as a cellphone stick device, a cellphone charger, a
transformer device, a USB wire to a computer port or similar device
such as those in FIG. 6A, 6B.
[0107] One half shell of a fishing lure 1 is described and its
corresponding half shell is not shown for simplicity but it is
understood. In this implementation, a circuit board 9 is mounted in
two U shaped plastic protrusions that are integrally formed from
plastic with the inner surface of the half shell; further, these
protrusions are disposed opposite one another with the open center
of the U shape facing one another thereby permitting a user to
slide the circuit board in the protrusions. An electric vibration
motor 5 and an LED light 7 are attached by soldering (welded) to
the top surface of the circuit board 9 forming appropriate electric
contacts thereon. A micro-controller or IC controller 10 is
soldered (welded) to the bottom surface of the circuit board 9
forming appropriate electric contacts thereon.
[0108] Next, two conductive wires 8E, 8F are wired separately to
the circuit board forming contact points thereon; the other extreme
portion of the wires 8E, 8F extend outwards to the inner surface of
the half shell and through small perforations in its wall on beyond
the outside of shell; alternatively, the wires extend one out of
the first half shell and the other out of the second half shell.
The use of nylon in the plastic inner lining of the perforation,
rubber gaskets or glue helps prevent leakage of liquids from the
outside to inner portion of the shells.
[0109] A charging port 12 is provided on the bottom portion of the
shell formed integrally from the body of the shell of the fishing
lure or from the two shells together. The port 12 is shaped in the
drawing as a U shaped however this could mean a rectangular shape
for a USB type connection or a cylindrical shape for a typical
round charging plug connector; a metallic contact layer 12B is
attached within the U shape mimicking its internal shape; this is
accomplished using detents from the integral U shape or similar
modalities that grip the edges thereof or the prearranged
perforations in the metallic contact layer.
[0110] A small sliding or flip on off cover 12A is formed at the
neck of the port 12; the cover has thumb push grooves on its
external surface to one side thereof and a small arrowhead
protrusion underneath the thumb grooves extending beyond the edge
of the cover 12A; this small arrowhead protrusion engages a hole in
the internal surface of the neck of the port 12. The other side of
the cover has a small rectangular protrusion that fits snugly into
a hole in the neck of the port 12. Thus, the port 12 is embedded in
the shell underneath a waterproof cover 12A that opens up to reveal
it. Alternatively, a mechanism found in various cell phone charging
ports is used whereby a small flap is attached to the outside of
the phone.
[0111] The powering of the Rechargeable Twitch Lure is to now
described with respect to the following. Providing electric power
from the Lithium Battery 14 to the rest of the components is
accomplished by a wired circuit that communicates current thereto;
activation of this circuit is accomplished by a user placing the
lure in an aquatic or liquid environment thereby providing a
conductive channel for electric current to flow between the
conductive wires 8E, 8F. Thus, when conductive wires 8E, 8F are in
the water current can flow there between activating the motion of
the Twitch Fishing Lure as well as an optional LED light; of
course, no electric power flows when the device is not in the water
as their is no conductive pathway to transfer current therethrough.
Thus, an angler has a unique mechanism by which he or she can
simply toss the Twitch Lure into the water immediately activating
the visual and motion capabilities therein.
[0112] A conductive wire 8E has one end that extends out through a
perforation or hole in the side of shell and another end that is
welded to a contact on circuit board 9; then another wire 8G is
soldered to that contact point and its opposite end to a terminal
of the lithium battery 14. A second conductive wire 8F has one end
that extends out through a perforation or hole in the side of shell
and another end that is soldered to a contact point on circuit
board 9; then another wire is soldered to that same contact on the
board and its opposite end to a terminal of the motor 5; the other
terminal of the motor 5 is soldered using another wire to an
optional LED device terminal that has both of its terminals
soldered onto the circuit board 9.
[0113] The other terminal of the LED device is soldered to circuit
board 9 creating another contact point; this contact point has a
wire 8H soldered thereto leading back to the other terminal of
lithium battery 14. It should be understood that two wires 14A, 14B
each connect to one terminal of the lithium battery and each
likewise connect to one of the two terminals of port 12 thereby
providing charging power to the rechargeable lithium battery there
through. A first wire 14A is connected to the U shaped inner
metallic contact layer 12B whilst a second wire 14B is connected to
a central pin or connector 13 that is held within a hole in the top
portion of the metal contact layer 12B and the integral U molded
shape holding it; of course, there is no direct contact between
metal contact layer 12B and the central pin or connector 13 as the
two are protected by a plastic protrusion (the inner small shape
adjacent the connector 13) of the integral U shape; alternatively,
detents and perforations can be used with a I shaped plastic insert
that separates them (connector / contact layer) electrically.
[0114] As an alternative to the above implementation a wire having
a suitable port connector on one side and two alligator clips on
the ends thereof provide power to a fishing lure having two
external metal protrusions connecting to an internal power source.
Another implementation envisions using suitable sockets for USB,
Micro USB, Mini USB, charger port, transformer ports and similar
such devices having contacts/wires to effect an electrical contact.
These would continue on to the inside of the fish lure and make
contact with the circuit in FIG. 4 about the battery as typical
recharging would require.
[0115] FIG. 5 presents a component level diagram of various devices
used to effect a fourth embodiment of the Twitch Dynamic Fishing
Lure having a non-removable battery pack and externally protruding
open circuit. In this embodiment a plastic or polymer fishing lure
1 made from two external shells has embedded within it another dual
shell container 3B that is completely enclosed at manufacture using
a tongue/groove, protrusion/hole locking mechanisms and or glue.
Within it are a set of disk shaped batteries 3 disposed posterior
of a longitudinally arrayed circuit board 9 mounted within
appropriately shaped walls therein (not shown for simplicity). Both
the circuit board 9 and the batteries 3 have plastic spacers
integrally formed from the interior surfaces of the dual shell
container 3B so as to prevent them from disengaging therein.
[0116] An electric vibration motor 5 and an LED light 7 are
attached by welding/soldering to the top surface of the circuit
board 9 connecting their terminals as electric contacts to the
board 9 and as described below. A micro-controller such as an IC
controller 10 is welded/soldered to the bottom surface of the
circuit board 9 forming appropriate electric contacts thereon.
Next, two conductive wires 81, 8J are connected separately to the
bottom of circuit board 9 forming two contact points thereon; the
other extreme portion of the wires 81, 8J extend outwards and on
through the enclosed shells 3B and into the external shells making
up the lure 1 and beyond.
[0117] These proceed on through two small perforations in the
enclosed internal shells 3B (one perforation each) and through two
other small perforations in the external shells making up the
fishing lure 1 and beyond the surface thereof. The use of nylon,
rubber gasket(s) or glue helps prevent leakage of liquids from the
outside to the inner portion of the fishing lure 1 or even on into
the enclosed internal shells 3B at the location of these
perforations.
[0118] The battery pack 3 in the shell 3B has a terminal connected
by a conductor to the underside of the board 9 forming a contact
point thereon; this contact point is further soldered to a wire on
the board that connects to the contact point of one of the
conductive wires 8I, 8J located on the bottom portion of the board.
The other terminal of the battery pack 3 has a conductive wire that
is soldered to the board 9 forming a contact point. This contact
point is further wired (or soldered) to one terminal of an optional
LED 7 (directly to motor 5 otherwise), also soldered to the board
9, whilst the other terminal of the LED 7 has its other terminal on
the board connected by wire (or soldered) to a terminal of the
vibration motor 5.
[0119] Next, the other terminal of the vibration motor 5 is
connected to a conductive wire either 8J, 8I contact that has been
soldered to the bottom of the surface of the circuit board 9. It
should be understood that the vibration motor 5 and the LED 7 can
be interchanged in the circuit and that the LED 7 is an optional
feature. Finally, micro-controller, IC controller 10 is either
series or parallel connected between the LED 7 and the vibration
motor 5 or across the vibration motor 5. Thus, a user has the
option of a water activated Twitch Fishing Lure that is portable
and attracts a great deal of attention as the motion of the body
effectively simulates a fish.
[0120] FIG. 6A presents an elevation view of a charging stick
having a charging wire associated therewith. A charging stick 15 is
shown having a longitudinal body and a socket 15A for the insertion
of a power adapter (USB, micro USB, mini USB) cable 16 having a
first adapter 16C and another adapter shown as a round circuit
adapter 16B integral therewith. These are useable to charge the
Twitch Fishing lure in the embodiment of FIG. 4.
[0121] FIG. 6B presents an elevation view of a charger device
having a charging wire associated therewith. A wire 17 has one end
with a power adapter 17A or charger and the other end having a
round adapter 17B. These are useable to charge the Twitch Fishing
lure in the embodiment of FIG. 4.
[0122] FIG. 7 presents various components describing a removable
battery pack in the second embodiment of FIG. 3; this view shows an
isometric complete battery compartment assembly in an embodiment.
There are essentially six components to make a completely operable
battery compartment as taught herein; these are namely, a
cylindrical end 18B having a flat head screw depression and a
circular O ring depression about its external surface, a L shaped
metal contact 11B, a set of three batteries 3, a metal external
spacer ring 19, a round metal contact 20 having an integral flanged
bottom portion, a plastic cylindrical end 18A having an external
thread and circular hole for the round metal contact 20.
[0123] The entire device sits within a circular mount that is
formed from the interior walls of both fish shells; that is it is
formed half in one fish shell and half in the other fish shell;
this half circular shape mount has matching threads for the thread
found on the plastic cylindrical end 18A thereby ensuring that it
does not disengage therefrom (shown in FIG. 3 more appropriately).
Alternatively, it is formed transverse between the two fish shells
and exits out one of them; this for the removable of the batteries
using a flat head screw driver to remove 18B.
[0124] Power is provided through the negative portion of the
batteries 3 that is in contact with a leg of the L shaped metal
contact 11B; the other leg of 11B is in contact with the metal
spacer ring 19. At this point wiring is provided that makes contact
with other parts of the circuit as described in FIG. 3. Power is
provided via the positive portion of the batteries 3 in physical
contact with and through a round metal contact 20 that sticks
through a hole in the plastic cylindrical end 18A. This round metal
contact has a flange that prevents it from exiting through this
hole in the plastic cylindrical end 18A.
[0125] Further Consideration: Any of the herein embodiments having
an open circuit water activation feature using externally extending
wires can optionally have the following alternative implementation.
A figure eight (8) metal contact sits within the fishing lure and
the other half sits outside of it for attachment of fishing hooks
thereto (negative or positive wired connection to appropriate
battery terminals or vice versa). The figure eight contacts are
inserted within the shell of the fishing lure in a mounting region
integrally formed from the internal space of the external shell(s)
provided in one or both fishing shells to ensure that this
structure does not move therein. The mounting regions described
herein closely match the shapes therein and can be optionally
sealed by rubber gaskets, adhesives or nylon seals as appropriate.
In this fashion when a user throws the fishing lure in the water,
electrical power is delivered via the two open circuit ends and
through the water itself thereby activating the ERM motor and
optionally any lights or other onboard devices.
[0126] Further the controller or IC control device taught in any
embodiment herein is a typical Eccentric Rotating Mass controller
or a custom designed one specific to the needs of the
implementation. This may be substituted with a dedicated
micro-controller, glue logic, circuit elements or combinations of
the foregoing as appropriate. They can be in parallel or series to
the ERM motor for control thereof.
[0127] It should be understood that various modifications of the
teachings herein are contemplated and possible and that would still
be within the breadth and scope of the appended claims. For
example, a eccentric rotating mass motor is utilized as a primary
vibrational motivator, however, any of the various other types of
motors currently available can be utilized to perform the same
effect and this would still be within the scope of the accompanying
claims.
[0128] FIG. 8 presents a closeup view of a Twitch Disk electrical
Contact device that makes contact with a figure eight fishing hook
holder in an embodiment. A figure eight fishing hook holder 21 is
placed within a suitable depression formed from an inner surface of
the shell of the fishing lure such that one end `circle` of the
fishing hook holder 21 is centered on a raised round protrusion 25
integral with a shell of the lure device; the neck of the FIG. 8
fishing hook holder 21 sits within a similar depression whose
surface is integral with the previous depression surface.
[0129] Thus, the neck or intermediate portion between the two
circle portions making up the FIG. 8 fishing hook holders 21 sits
in a depression that opens up to the outside so that the other end
of the fishing hook holder 21 is exposed to the elements; as a
result, a fishing hook can easily be attached thereto. The raised
protrusion 25 matches a corresponding depression (not shown) on the
other shell of the fishing lure so as to effect a tight engagement
therewith. An electrical wire 23 attached to a portion of the
circuit that is intended to have a contact to an open circuit nodal
point is soldered to an electrically conductive disk shaped device
22 at its integral neck portion. This disk shaped device 22 is also
centered about protrusion 25 and sits atop the fishing hook holder
21 so as to make physical contact therewith and permit electrical
current to flow there between.
[0130] FIG. 9 presents a closeup view of a Twitch Disk electrical
Contact device separate from the figure eight fishing hook holder
that it is designed to make contact with in an embodiment. This
view more clearly shows how the fishing hook holder 21 is
integrally made from a single conductive metal in the shape of a
FIG. 8; thus, a first `circular` portion 21A of the FIG. 8
protruding outside of the fishing lure is connected at each
circular end thereof to one of two intermediate portions 21B that
each further integrates with one of the other `circular` portion
21C ends such that the circular portion 21C is itself
concentrically located about raised protrusion 25 and is buried
within a suitable depression in the body of the fishing lure. It
should be understood that the intermediate portions 21B is located
within a depression in the fishing lure shell so as to forbid
rotation (as much as possible) of the fishing hook about the raised
protrusion 25. Further, the FIG. 8 fishing hook holder 21 can be a
complete loop or can be broken at a point (see the break in 21C)
thereof simply to facilitate simpler manufacturing.
[0131] Next, a curved wall 24 extends from one inner molded wall of
the fishing lure shell to another inner molded wall. Thus, this
curved wall 24 within the fishing lure forms a head buttress for
the circle portion 21C that is concentrically located about raised
protrusion 25. Additionally, if desired in the implementation, this
curved wall has a notch or cutout 24A (not shown) for the neck
portion 22B of the disk shaped device 22 so that it can
appropriately sit therein.
[0132] Finally, an electrical wire 23 attached to a portion of the
circuit that is intended to have a contact to an externally
protruding open circuit nodal point is soldered to a disk shaped
device 22 at its integral neck portion 22B that is a round or
cylindrically hollow shape permitting internal attachment thereto.
This disk shaped device portion 22A sits atop the fishing hook
holder 21 at its interiorly disposed circle portion 21C such that
both (22A, 21C) of the aforementioned are concentrically located on
raised protrusion 25. Whether using a notch 24A or not in one half
shell of the fishing lure, it should be understood that the other
shell is shaped in such a fashion so as to enclose the top portions
of the the aforementioned holder 21 and dish shaped device 22
therein and to sit flush with the first shell so as to create a
complete streamlined fishing lure.
[0133] At this point, the entire fishing lure is then
ultrasonically sealed whereby acoustic vibrations are applied to
the two shells to seal them together and to effect a water tight
seal at the hole in one or both shells at the neck 21B between the
two shells so that molded plastic of the shells covers the part.
This entire system and process helps in maintaining the lure as the
fishing hook 21 is moved violently around by a captured fish
causing a an attempted rotational motion about protrusion 25. Any
further seepage within the device is reduced or even eliminated by
having the disk device 22 in tight contact with the holder 21.
[0134] FIG. 10 presents an elevation view of a Twitch Disk
electrical Contact device in a mid body position and in an end (or
forward) position making contact with their respective figure eight
fishing hook holders in an embodiment. Two open circuit contact
positions are shown. Other locations are possible throughout the
lure.
[0135] FIG. 11 presents a perspective view of a Twitch Disk
electrical Contact device in a mid body position and in an end (or
forward) position making contact with their respective figure eight
fishing hook holders in an embodiment. Two open circuit contact
positions are shown. Other locations are possible throughout the
lure.
Operational Description in an Embodiment
[0136] FIG. 12 presents an electrical diagram in an alternative
embodiment of a Twitch System describing various lighting and
vibrational properties. Most broadly, a battery powered system is
provided having an attached lighting and vibrational motor luring
system for attracting the fish during water activation thereof
Also, integrated into the system is another lighting signaling and
charging system of the device. This lighting and charging system
uses a charging port prepared for selective user connection of a
charging wire thereto. In this example, the charging wire has an
end with a centrally embedded terminal in a round charging cylinder
connector (barrel or cylinder type) and the other end of the
charging wire has a USB connector; together, these form a single
charging wire so you can connect the rechargeable fishing lure to a
computer port or similar USB port.
[0137] First, a fishing lure is placed in the water permitting
current flow between two open circuit terminals that are each
separately in electrical communication with a fishing hook holder
(having a hook attached thereto) in the fishing lure and with
separate points in the circuit of FIG. 12. As a result, an IC
controller manages the vibrational properties of an attached
vibrational motor alternating the activation--deactivation thereof
according to a predetermined programmed protocol of timed events.
Additionally, LED lights attached to the IC controller are pulsed
accordingly in synchronicity with the activation--deactivation of
the attached vibrational motor thereby providing a highly
attractive luring effect.
[0138] Next, when the fishing lure is removed from the water, the
activation--deactivation of the vibrational and lure lighting
system is disabled since current can not flow between the two open
circuit terminals each in contact with an externally protruding
hook holder. If a user wants to recharge the device, then the
connection of a round barrel or cylinder connector (integral with a
wire and USB connector) to a charging dock integrated into the body
of the fishing lure is required. Once connected a charging lighting
device is activated which is on whilst charging and shuts off once
the device is fully charged. A counter included in the system of
FIG. 12 counts the number of charges that are permitted with the
device until the device has reached its useful limit; it is
currently believed that the system has a useful life of ten charges
although the specific device can have fewer or more depending on
the stress level imposed on a particular unit by a user. The
following description more fully describes the specific elements
that enable the device.
[0139] FIG. 12 has a Twitch electronic system in an embodiment
having two main components, namely, IC controller 27 (such as
JZL122614CM) having 8 pins connected on a board together with
various components as well as to auxiliary recharging IC device 37
(such as 5054B) and it 5 pins as follows. It should be understood
that these two identification numbers are given as exemplary only
and that any two general purpose controller and auxiliary
controller can be used in the description that follows. The
terminals 34, 36 serve as the open circuit terminals that are in
physical contact with the FIG. 8 fishing hook holder devices that
protrude from the fishing lure and activate the luring system
motor, and LED1s when in contact with water.
[0140] The first open circuit terminal 36 is wired in to pin 1 of
the IC controller, to identical terminals of two parallel LEDs
(LED1, 26), to pin 3 of auxiliary IC 37, to one end of LED0 (D3) as
well as to the positive terminal of a vibration motor 32. The other
terminals of the two LEDs (LED1) 26 are wired together and to pin 2
of IC controller 27. The negative terminal of motor 32 is connected
to pin 5 of IC controller 27. When there is no charging cylinder
connected on dock 31 and when water activation is enabled across
terminals 34, 36 pins 4, 1 communicated this water enablement
through programmed switches within IC controller 27 and to pin 2
that controls the activation and deactivation of LED1s 26 utilizing
a predetermined timing sequence of ON and OFF periods cycling at
varying time intervals along with activation of the motor 32
utilizing switches internal of IC 27 that output the correct
sequence on pin 5 thereof.
[0141] Thus, an exemplary sequence includes is ON, 1s OFF, 1.5s ON,
1.5s OFF, 2s ON, 2s OFF, 2.5s ON and 2.5s OFF then repeating from
the start. It should be understood that the particular length of
time in either the ON and or OFF cycle can vary according to the
implementation. Similarly, the cycle does not have to steadily
increment; rather, the sequence is optionally decrementing or even
with variable times for each ON and OFF cycle.
[0142] Pin 3 of IC controller 27 is connected to a terminal of
resistor R1 (10k) that itself has another terminal connected to
power source battery 35; the other terminal of battery 35 is
connected to pin 8 of IC controller 27, to a terminal of Charging
Dock 31, to pin 2 of auxiliary IC 37; to a resistor terminal R3
(1k) that has its other terminal as input to pin 5 of IC 37; and
the other terminal of the battery is also connected to a terminal
of resistor R0 (5.1k). This resistor R0 (5.1k) has its other
terminal connected to pin 4 of IC controller 27 as well as to the
other open circuit terminal 34. Thus, when the lure is thrown in
the water, current flows through these two terminals 34, 36 so as
to activate motor 32 and lights 26 LED1s on a preprogrammed
periodic pulsed basis of ON, OFF, ON, OFF and so forth; a typical
sequence such as 1s ON, 1s OFF, 2s ON, 2s OFF, 3s ON, 3s OFF and so
forth is contemplated. The time periods do not have to be identical
with the period off being more or less than the period on.
Similarly, the cycle does not have to steadily increment; rather,
the sequence is optionally decrementing or even with variable times
for each ON and OFF cycle.
[0143] Pin 1 of auxiliary IC controller 37 is connected to pin 6 of
IC controller 27. Pin 2 of IC 37 is connected to a terminal of the
Charging Dock 31 that has its other terminal connected to pin 4 of
IC 37. Pin 2 of IC 37 is connected also to R0 33 5.1k, to a
terminal of battery 35, to Dock 31, to pin 8 of IC 27 and to a
terminal of 30 R3 1k. This resistor 30 R3 1k is connected as
described above to the battery 35, Dock 31, pin 2 IC 37, pin 8 of
IC 27, R0 33 5.1k at one terminal and its other terminal is
connected to pin 5 of IC 37. Pin 3 of auxiliary IC 37 is connected
to a terminal of LED0 (D3) 29 that has its other terminal connected
to a resistor R2 1k 28 having its other terminal connected to pin 7
of IC controller 27. Pin 3 of auxiliary IC 37 is also connected
with the terminal of LED0 to pin 1 of IC 27 as well as the
terminals of LED1, the motor 32, and the open circuit terminal
36.
[0144] When the charging dock 31 has a connector inserted therein,
then the auxiliary chip 37 senses this fact and a charging light
LED0 is turned on through pin 3 of IC 37 using internal switches
therein. Once charging is complete, as sensed through internal
voltage and or current detectors built therein, the chip 37 turns
off the LED0 indicating that charging is complete. When not in the
water no current flows between 34, 36 so that LED1s 26 are off and
motor 32 is turned off; similarly when there is no charging
connector connected at DOCK 31 the charging LED0 is OFF.
Additionally, IC auxiliary controller 37 pin 3 controls the
activation of LED0 by setting appropriate states to make it flash
OFF and ON repeatedly for a predetermined number of times when the
maximum recommended number X of charges has taken place (currently
X=10) by an onboard counter in IC 5054b 37.
[0145] It (pin 3) also controls the steady state operation of LED0
for indicating charging when the current number X of charges is
less than a maximum value by setting an appropriate state to make
it be steady (1) and turns LED0 off with an appropriate reset state
(0) thereon. Pin 1 of IC controller 37 communicates with pin 6 of
IC controller 27 so as to ensure deactivation of the motor on pin 5
and the lights LED1s on pin 2 (using internal switches within 27
therein) whilst a charging connector cylinder is connected to the
dock 31. If however, there is no cylinder charging connector
attached to the dock 31 then these internal switches are left in a
state that they can sense water activation on open circuit
terminals 34, 36. It should be understood that the particular
switches within 27, 37 on controlling and determining whether or
not to charge, water activation-deactivation or quiescent state can
be distributed to either controller 27 or auxiliary controller 37
or both. Further, the two are optionally integrated into a single
component to perform the same functions along with appropriate glue
logic. Finally, it should be understood that the broadest
interpretation of 27, 37 are generic controller, auxiliary
controller and should not be limited to the specific items numbers
indicated above which are only exemplary.
[0146] FIG. 13 presents a fishing device having an embedded control
device, vibrational device and powering system and a recharging
power port that is exposed to the elements as well as a sealing
cap. The violent nature of a fish attached to a lure necessitated
the improvement as taught herein. The recharging power port 41
shown to the left of the sealing cap 43 has its central power
terminal and its conductive internal side walls terminal connected
to other corresponding electronic terminals within the fishing
device for vibrational powering thereof. An external plastic
portion 42 of the power port protrudes out from and is integral
with the body of a fishing device; the power port has a small power
terminal 44 centrally disposed in the primary hollow channel 45 of
the power port. The external plastic portion 42 is circular in this
implementation; however, any suitable shape is envisioned and would
depend upon the surface features of the proposed connection
device.
[0147] It is understood that the power terminal 44 is attached to
the plastic molded surroundings having a hole for this device to
pass therethrough in such a way that it does not move therefrom;
the use of one or more of the following: a pre-molded slot within
which an integral base (square or circle base) of the power
terminal 44 rod sits, undercuts, over-cuts, tongue and groove
within the plastic molded parts, and more are optional alternatives
for attachment of the terminal to the plastic surroundings. It
should be understood that this power terminal 44 is electrically
separate or `insulated` from the electrically conductive
cylindrical side walls that form all or a portion of the primary
hollow channel 45 by suitable plastic material there between with
the addition of a slot for the integral base (integrally attached
to the terminal rod) formed in the plastic form of the shell. Thus,
the conductive cylindrical side walls forms the other terminal for
the port 41 and is designed to make contact with the corresponding
external cylindrical side wall of an inserted barrel connector
(having a USB connector attached thereto forming a single wire
connector). This power terminal 44 is to be inserted within a
corresponding centrally disposed terminal channel 46 of the sealing
cap 43 when prepared for use.
[0148] The sealing cap 43 is made of silicone rubber, nylon or
similar material. Encasing the void of the terminal channel 46 is
cylinder 47 that itself is to be inserted into primary channel 45
of the power port 41. This primary channel 45 has walls partially
or wholly made of conductive material that is molded into
corresponding surroundings so as to seal the inner portion of the
fishing lure from external water seepage whilst permitting the
cylindrical sides of a barrel type connector to electrically engage
thereto. If partially made of conductive material then the rest is
made substantially from the material comprising the fishing lure
structure. An inner surface of the conductive side wall material is
electrically wired to an appropriate portion of the circuit shown
in FIG. 12 through an appropriate hole in the plastic surroundings.
Similarly, the terminal 44 is attached electrically to the circuit
through the base bottom and or optionally through the surrounding
plastic material.
[0149] The cylinder 47 has a closed end that integrates with the
underside of a mushroom head 48 that extends down and about a
portion of the external surface of the cylinder 47. This
configuration leaves a circular space 49 about the cylinder 47
between the outer surface of the cylinder 47 and inner surface of
that portion of the mushroom head 48 that extends down and
thereabout a portion of the cylinder 47. Thus, it should be
understood that a portion of the cylinder 47 is not covered by the
mushroom head 48. The circular space 49 is formed so that it
engages the outer circular surface of the external plastic portion
42 of the power port that protrudes out from and is integral with
the body of a fishing device.
[0150] The diagram of FIG. 13 contemplates using a cylinder
connector or barrel connector having a center mounted terminal
buried within the cylinder and or on the fishing lure port itself.
It should be apparent that there are numerous types of these
connectors including some that do not have this center connection
and there are also USB ports that can be mounted; thus, the seal
needs to be adapted to these recharging systems. Thus, a process
for creating an appropriate seal would be as follows, determining a
type of charging port, analyzing the various internal and external
surfaces thereof, analyzing the various surfaces of the connector,
creating a seal that mirrors the design of the connector surfaces
as they come into conjunction with the port and extending the seal
so that it overflows about the external surface of the port, lure
and internal workings of the port. Thus, this last step insures
that there is a multiple level seal as appropriate to the port. For
example, various USB devices have internal surfaces and raised
protrusions that can be utilized to create a multi level seal
appropriate thereto. A raised protrusion would be inserted in
passage like 46 that surround with a encompassing surface such as
47 except now this would be generally rectangular or square as
needed by the port and connection device type.
[0151] FIG. 14 presents a fishing device having an embedded control
device and a recharging power port that is exposed to the elements
as well as a sealing cap; in this view the sealing cap 43 is
inserted within the primary channel of the power port 41. Here
cylinder 47 is inserted into primary channel 45 of the power port
41.
[0152] FIG. 15 presents a fishing device having an embedded control
device and a recharging power port that is exposed to the elements
as well as a sealing cap; in this view, the sealing cap 43 cylinder
47 is inserted within the primary channel 45 of the power port 41
and the power terminal 44 is inserted within the terminal channel
46 in the sealing cap. Further, it is clear from the drawings that
the circular space 49 is formed so that is engages the outer
circular surface of the external plastic portion 42 of the power
port 41 that protrudes out from and is integral with the body of a
fishing device. It should be understood from FIG. 13-15 that the
sealing cap 13 is attached to a power port 41 of a fishing lure
having a raised protrusion 42. The raised protrusion and internal
channel seal was necessary as this greatly improved the viability
of the seal so that shock and vibration of the fish attached to a
hook does not cause the sealing cap to eject from the port. These
devices as described herein have two shells making a complete
fishing lure; thus, a few optional alternatives are contemplated in
that the charging port is present on one shell or connected at a
juncture between the two shells.
[0153] FIG. 16A presents a first part of a process describing the
operational flow of the electrical circuit in FIG. 12. The system
is in a quiescent state waiting for a trigger event such as water
activation or charging and upon receipt thereof executing certain
actions that are incumbent on the mode of operation. If a water
trigger event is detected 50 (Yes) by the open circuit terminal
points 34, 36 permitting current flow into the circuit then the two
LED1s 26 are flashed 51 according to a predetermined cycle of ON
and OFF that are decremented, incremented or a pseudo random
predetermined sequence according to user wishes. A vibrational
motor is similarly activated 52 concurrently and cycled accordingly
with the ON and OFF states of the LED1s 26; switches internal to IC
27 perform these activation deactivation routines along with
optional software control stored on onboard memory. The process
returns to waiting for the water trigger event or until water
non-activation is detected. If water activation does not occur at
50 then the process in its quiescent state cycles onwards to B. The
overall system process continues on FIG. 16B.
[0154] FIG. 16B presents a second part of a process describing the
operational flow of the electrical circuit in FIG. 12. If a
charging connector wire is or is not connected 53 to DOCK 31 is
determined by IC auxiliary 37 using voltage or current detection.
If a charging connector is NOT connected then the system process
returns to A on FIG. 16A. If a charging connector is connected in
the DOCK 31 then the amount of charge is detected 54 by voltage and
or current detection or similar circuitry. If full then the system
reenters a quiescent state and waits for another trigger event. If
the battery 35 is DEPLETED then a determination 55 is made of the
value of an OnChip counter in IC auxiliary chip 37. If FULL
(Count-MAX 10 charges for example) then the LED0 flashes On and OFF
a predetermined number of times and no charging occurs as internal
switches within controller 37 are disabled forbidding this so that
process ends; alternatively, the process optionally returns to the
waiting for trigger events returning to step 53 for example.
[0155] If the count is less then a maximum then the on-chip counter
in auxiliary chip 37 is incremented 56. The battery 35 is charged
and LED0 enters into a steady light mode of operation by auxiliary
chip 37 enabling one or more internal switches to permit the
aforementioned. Then a determination 58 is made as to whether the
dock is still connected or not. If the connector is removed from
the DOCK 31 then the process cycles to a quiescent state and this
is indicated by going back to A. If however, the dock is still
connected another check 59 is made as to the charge state of the
battery 35; if depleted then the LED0 remains lit and charging
continues. If the charge state is FULL then LED0 is turned off and
charging stops by IC controller 37 disabling one or more switches
that permit the light and charging so that the process returns to
determining 53 whether or not the DOCK is connected.
[0156] It should be understood in the description of the above
process that there are hardware, software and or firmware that have
been preprogrammed into the controllers 27, 37 to effect the
aforementioned process. For example, a timer included within 27 is
used to control the timed events of the vibrational motor and LEDs
for water activation luring attraction function along with software
in an on-chip memory organizing and cycling all of these procedural
steps. The software, timer, and other switches are optionally
included in one, both or an integrated singular control device.
Similarly, a counter, timer and detection circuitry is located
within 37 for control of the dock. Any of these hardware, software
or firmware is optionally rearranged in one, both or in an integral
control device. Finally, the circuit resistance has been tuned to
both fresh and salt water operation.
[0157] The following is a list of the operational states of IC
controller 27 and auxiliary IC controller 37 in one embodiment
delineating the pins and the functions thereof in an exemplary
embodiment.
[0158] IC Controller 27--Pin # Primary function
[0159] #1 Electric circuit (+) & Touch wire (+) & Flashing
LED 1 lights (-) & Motor (+)
[0160] #2 Flashing LED 1 lights (-)
[0161] #3 Lithium battery electric (+)
[0162] #4 Touch wire (-)
[0163] #5 Motor (-)
[0164] #6 Connection features IC & 5054B IC
[0165] #7 Rechargeable LED 0 light (-)
[0166] #8 Electric circuit (-)
[0167] 5054B Rechargeable IC 37
[0168] #1 Connection features IC & 5054B IC
[0169] #2 Lithium battery electric (-)
[0170] #3 Electric circuit (+) & Rechargeable LED 0 light
(+)
[0171] #4 Charging dock (+)
[0172] #5 Charging dock (-)
* * * * *